Age: 29
Sex: Male
Height: 175cm
Birthday: September 13, 2000
Relations: Shinji Ikari (Ally)
Kaworu Nagisa is both the 17th Angel and the Fifth Child. Although classified as an Angel, Kaworu is similar to Rei Ayanami in being a Seed of Life that inhabits the human body. Despite his human form, Kaworu does not consider himself to be human, since he refers to humans as "the Lilin."
Kaworu appears humming the fourth movement of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, the same music that plays during his descent into Terminal Dogma and so serves as a leitmotif for his character. The Ninth Symphony itself incorporates an adaptation of Friedrich Schiller's Ode to Joy (Ode an die Freude), a poem dedicated to the unity of all men under God. The moment Kaworu opens the doors to Terminal Dogma is in synch with the line "Und der Cherub steht vor Gott"—"And the Cherub (Angel) stands before God."
Kaworu's body appears to have been created as a result of the Contact Experiment with Adam, wherein DNA from an unknown human donor dove into and fused with Adam's flesh, explaining Hyuga's discovery that Kaworu was "born" on the day of Second Impact. SEELE salvaged Adam's disembodied soul into Kaworu, whom they may have recovered in embryonic form in Antarctica.
Kaworu's origin from Adam, only intimated in the anime, is flatly stated in Sadamoto's manga.
Since Kaworu was delivered to NERV by SEELE, it is believed that Kaworu has been living under SEELE's surveillance prior to his appearance in the series.
Kaworu is brought to NERV to replace Asuka, who is no longer able to pilot Unit-02. He is only able to pilot Unit-02 because its soul is in hiding. In his first test, Kaworu immediately achieves impressive synchronization results. It later emerges that Kaworu is able to achieve whatever level of synchronization he chooses with Unit-02.
(Source: Evangelion Wikia)
Rebuilds 1-4
Introduction in Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) AloneKaworu is only briefly introduced at the end of the first film during a cryptic scene. He is shown waking up on the moon, seated in a coffin-like container surrounded by other empty coffins. His dialogue hints at foreknowledge of Shinji's existence and his role in the events to come: "So this is the boy... I look forward to meeting you, Shinji Ikari."This enigmatic appearance establishes Kaworu as a key figure linked to the overarching mysteries of the Rebuild series. His placement on the moon is connected to the larger mythos involving Seele's plans, the Evangelions, and the remnants of the First Ancestral Race.
Kaworu, has a slightly expanded presence in the second film. His primary scenes reinforce his awareness of Shinji and the cyclical nature of the events unfolding: Kaworu descends from the moon in an Evangelion (Unit-06), landing on Earth at the end of the movie. His Evangelion is described as having been constructed under Seele's supervision and is notable for its mysterious and autonomous qualities. He declares, "This time, I’ll make you happy, Shinji," further implying a loop or repetition of events in which Kaworu has prior knowledge.
Although his role is limited in this film, his interactions, and cryptic lines foreshadow his deeper connection to Shinji and the impending Third Impact.
Kaworu becomes a central character in the third film, which takes place 14 years after the events of 2.0.Introduction as Shinji's Companion: Kaworu introduces himself to Shinji as a kindred spirit, forming a close and intimate bond with him. He becomes a mentor and friend, guiding Shinji through his confusion about the state of the world after his 14-year stasis. He shares a love for music, teaching Shinji to play the piano in a symbolic sequence highlighting their connection. Revealing the Truth: Kaworu explains to Shinji the consequences of his actions in 2.0, revealing that Shinji inadvertently triggered Near Third Impact. This revelation deepens Shinji’s guilt, and Kaworu becomes a source of emotional support t. He introduces Shinji to the concept of the "Spears of Longinus" and "Cassius," explaining that they are key to resetting the world and undoing its devastation. Tragic Sacrifice: Kaworu pilots Evangelion Unit-13 alongside Shinji to retrieve the Spears, believing this will restore the world. However, they discover that the spears are not as Kaworu expected, leading to the activation of Fourth Impact. Realizing he is the trigger for Instrumentality, Kaworu sacrifices himself by detonating the DSS Choker around his neck, sparing Shin, ji and halting the catastrophe. Kaworu’s death reinforces his role as both a savior and a tragic figure doomed to repeat cycles of suffering.
Background and the Five Adams (Explored in Thrice Upon a Time)
The Five Adams are primordial beings tied to the creation of Evangelion and the events of the Impact cycles. They represent key elements in the backstory of Rebuild of Evangelion. Kaworu, as the First Angel, has a direct connection to these beings. He is often referred to as an "Adams' Vessel," suggesting he is an incarnation or proxy for one of these entities. The Adams are shown in flashbacks during 3.0+1.0 as part of the foundational events leading to the near-apocalyptic state of the world . Kaworu’s Nature and Purpose: Kaworu exists as a being created by Seele, embodying both human and Angelic traits. His purpose is to oversee and guide the Impact events toward Seele’s intended Instrumentality. However, his personal feelings for Shinji often lead him to act against these goals. The cyclic nature of Kaworu's appearances suggests he is trapped in a repeating timeline, experiencing variations of the same story in which he strives to bring happiness to Shinji.
Anti-Universe and Closure: Kaworu reappears during Shinji's journey through the Anti-Universe, helping Shinji confront his guilt and regrets. He acknowledges his role in perpetuating Shinji’s suffering and apologizes for failing to provide the happiness he sought. He explains that he is bound to the repeating loops caused by Instrumentality but expresses hope that this cycle can finally be broken. Flashback with Kaj: A key flashback shows Kaworu attempting to live a normal life alongside humanity, interacting with Ryoji Kaji in a peaceful setting. This scene highlights Kaworu’s longing for a simpler existence, free from the burdens of his angelic nature. Final Liberation: Kaworu’s final act is one of acceptance. By letting go of his attachment to Shinji and the cyclical timeline, he helps Shinji forge a new reality where the burdens of the Evangelions are no longer present. His smile at the film’s conclusion symbolizes his peace and freedom from the cycle.
(add on) In Thrice Upon a Time, Kaworu’s farewell to Shinji is more than a goodbye—it represents a culmination of his character arc. By letting go of their attachment to Shinji, Kaworu helps end the cyclical nature of Instrumentality and paves the way for a new world. His final smile symbolizes both acceptance and hope, leaving a profound impact on Shinji and the audience. Kaworu's role is integral to the film's resolution, embodying the themes of closure, forgiveness, and the possibility of moving forward into an uncertain yet hopeful future.
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